The Indiana Fever are surging in popularity and performance this WNBA season, with rookie superstar Caitlin Clark commanding headlines. But sometimes, the challenges a team faces off the court can be just as powerful as those on it. That was the case this week, when Fever forward Lexie Hull became the unexpected target of harsh bullying and cyberattacks following a heated game. What happened next proved that the Fever’s strength comes not just from their athleticism, but from their unity — as Caitlin Clark and veteran teammate Sophie Cunningham stood up, loud and clear, to support their teammate and destroy the narrative set by the bullies.
The Incident: Lexie Hull Targeted
After a particularly physical contest on the hardwood, Lexie Hull was subject to a stream of taunts and negative messages across social media. The source? A controversial moment late in the game, where Hull’s defensive hustle led to some contact and an ensuing turnover. Opposing fans quickly took to Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, unleashing a wave of mockery and cruel comments — with some trolls even tagging Hull directly in their posts.
The attacks escalated quickly, with toxic messages attacking not just her play, but her character and appearance. In an era when cyberbullying is a persistent problem for women athletes, this moment threatened to drain Hull’s mental focus and cast a shadow over the Fever’s recent successes.
Caitlin Clark Steps Up
As the Fever’s rookie sensation — and someone who’s faced more than her own share of scrutiny this year — Caitlin Clark didn’t hesitate to stand up for her teammate. In a candid post-game press interview, Clark shut down the negativity with a message as sharp as her shooting stroke:
“Lexie is the toughest player I’ve ever met. She works harder than anyone in this league, and none of us would be here without her defense, her energy, and her will to win. Bullying someone for playing hard? That’s not what basketball, or being a fan, is about. We have her back on this team — always.”
Clark also took to her own social media, retweeting a photo of Hull with the caption: “True teammate. True leader. Ignore the noise, Lexie — we got you.” The show of support sent a wave of encouragement through Fever fans, prompting hundreds to flood Hull’s mentions with kindness and gratitude.
Sophie Cunningham Adds Veteran Wisdom
The Fever’s roster was recently bolstered by the addition of Sophie Cunningham, known for her grit and no-nonsense leadership. Cunningham, who has spent years fending off naysayers herself, brought her signature fire to the situation:
“Haters gonna hate. What matters is how you play for your team and your city. Lexie does that every single night. If you come after one of us, you’re coming after all of us.”
Cunningham’s response echoed across basketball media, serving as a rallying cry for the importance of solidarity and strength in the face of online harassment.
The Message Resonates
The responses from Clark and Cunningham didn’t just drown out the bullies — they shifted the conversation entirely. Instead of focusing on the negativity, Fever fans, WNBA supporters, and even rival players began to share stories of resilience and the importance of supporting women athletes in the face of online vitriol.
Underneath Hull’s latest Instagram post, the top comments are no longer hurtful jabs, but heartfelt words of encouragement:
“We’re with you, Lexie!”
“Don’t listen to the haters. You inspire my daughters every day.”
“Defense wins championships. Keep balling!”
Lexie Hull’s Response: Strength in Unity
As the smoke cleared, Hull herself posted a brief but powerful message: “Thankful for my Fever family. Your words and support mean the world — see you on the court.”
The Fever rallied in their next matchup, Hull playing hard and free, the team surging to a crucial victory. The message was clear: united teams are unbreakable.
Why This Matters
The Fever’s support of Lexie Hull highlights the very real issue of cyberbullying in women’s sports, and the vital role that teammates and fans can play in shutting it down. Athletes like Clark and Cunningham set the standard for leadership — on and off the court.
As the WNBA continues to grow, moments like these prove that the strength of female athletes extends far beyond their statistics. It’s found in their resilience, their camaraderie, and their willingness to protect each other from attacks, whether on the court or behind the screen.
It’s proof that this Indiana Fever team is building more than just a playoff run — they’re building a legacy of courage and unity that inspires the next generation.
